Making Your Mark: Hampton Roads drives through and comes through for Hurricane Matthew victims

Author:
LaSalle Blanks

Published:
5:28 PM EST November 10, 2016

Updated:
5:28 PM EST November 10, 2016

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (WVEC-TV) -- We're used to seeing big concert crowds at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater in Virginia Beach.

But, on this cold, October morning, there was a small, but passionate group outside dancing in the streets. They were Salvation Army volunteers awaiting residents, who were driving through to donate household items, like paper towels, paper plates, plastic utensils, napkins and toilet paper. They also donated personal care items like shampoo, toothbrushes, baby wash and lotions, socks and underwear. All of it will go to families that are still struggling because of Hurricane Matthew that drenched Hampton Roads with flooding -- and wind damage back in October.

"It's nice to do something good -- nice for the community," said Virginia Beach resident, Kevin Neas, whose brother's home was impacted by Matthew. "I think the water made it up his porch and got into his garage," Kevin said. "It was a hassle for him, but I think there's a lot of people that got hit quite worse than that."

"It's a call to action," said Eric, a Salvation Army worker. "There are some people who have recovered from Matthew and want to put it behind them. But we're coming out and spreading awareness that there are still some families hurting."

And to help ease their pain, many residents answered the call and drove out to the parking lot of the Amphitheater, where they normally gather to celebrate a great concert. Today, they were the ones hitting high notes with their generosity.

"We wanted to come out and just donate some kind of paper product and help our brothers and sisters get back on their feet again," said Karen, who drove out to donate.

And, just like the musicians who take the stage at the Amphitheater, each donor was treated like a rock star when they left. There were plenty of cheers and high fives for people who gave up their time to engage in an act of kindness for others and make their mark.